Lets say that a game sold at retail in Japan is too risky for a publisher to release at retail in America and Europe. Yet they are willing to release it on the eShop as if it were a full priced retail release as a download for $30 - $40.

Would this be acceptable to gamers? Or should full priced retail games only get sold at retail, never as download only, even if it means we miss out on several games we wouldn't see otherwise?

Of course if digital was the only option then it'd be nice to have it (despite the numerous flaws).
The problem would be if some companies started to localise less games physically simply because they could just have them digital-only to save on costs/risk, and the new system simply led to less games getting physical copies out of Japan.

Lets say that a game sold at retail in Japan is too risky for a publisher to release at retail in America and Europe. Yet they are willing to release it on the eShop as if it were a full priced retail release as a download for $30 - $40.

Would this be acceptable to gamers? Or should full priced retail games only get sold at retail, never as download only, even if it means we miss out on several games we wouldn't see otherwise?

I don't think it's right to even oppose this. I mean, just because someone doesn't want to pay $30-$40 for a download game doesn't mean it should be denied to those who will. I generally prefer retail over digital but if a developer can't afford to localize a game in retail format, I'm just happy to get the game.

I would assume this conversation is sparked from the release of Unchained Blades. We should be happy we're even getting this game, as it could've been another title that never made it to the West.

Lets say that a game sold at retail in Japan is too risky for a publisher to release at retail in America and Europe. Yet they are willing to release it on the eShop as if it were a full priced retail release as a download for $30 - $40.

Would this be acceptable to gamers? Or should full priced retail games only get sold at retail, never as download only, even if it means we miss out on several games we wouldn't see otherwise?

No. It's not acceptable. For example, I never would have downloaded Monster World IV if it held onto its retail price of $50.

Don't worry about it. I have the game & love it. I use to review video games on amazon a few years ago. I'm not saying my username on there but I might review Riding Stables 3DS on my blog www.rugrats777.blogspot.com just for kick's because I'm really into the game right now. Who know's.